Veiling

This free course explores controversies associated with the practice of 'veiling' within Islam. The Islamic 'veil', be it in the form of the hijab, niqab, jilbab or burqa (we shall explore this terminology in more detail later), has been at the centre of many different controversies. Many of these controversies can be understood in the context of debates about different citizenship models and different understandings of the roles, rights and demands of faith groups in society. In some instances, such controversies have resulted in legal disputes and the creation of new laws.

Course learning outcomes

After studying this course, you should be able to:

demonstrate skills in the analysis of visual and material expressions of religion

understand the role of material culture within religious rituals and practices

recognise the complexity and diversity of the many different styles of ‘veils’ and ‘veiling’ practices in Islam and of the range of different factors that can influence the adoption and interpretation of different ‘veiling’ practices and styles of dress among Muslim women

understand the limitations of the terms ‘veil’, ‘Muslim clothing’ and ‘Islamic dress’ and use some relevant terminology to distinguish between different styles of ‘veiling’.

You can start this course right now without signing-up. Click on any of the course content sections below to start at any point in this course.
If you want to be able to track your progress, earn a free Statement of Participation, and access all course quizzes and activities, sign-up.

Create an account to get more

Track your progress

Statement of participation

On completetion of a course you will earn a Statement of participation.

Access all course activities

Take course quizzes and access all learning.

Review the course

When you have finished a course leave a review and tell others what you think.

Copyright information

Creative commons: The Open University is proud to release this free course under a Creative Commons licence.

However, any third-party materials featured within it are used with permission and are not ours to give away. These
materials are not subject to the Creative Commons licence. See terms and conditions and our FAQs.

Full copyright details can be found in the Acknowledgements section of each week.

For further information, take a look at our frequently asked questions which may give you the support you need.

Making the decision to study can be a big step, which is why you'll want a trusted University.
The Open University has nearly 50 years’ experience delivering flexible learning and 170,000 students are studying with us right now.
Take a look at all Open University courses.

If you are new to university level study, find out more about the types of qualifications we offer, including our entry level
Access courses and Certificates.